Cat Red Eyes

Cat red eyes are symptomatic of an eye infection known as conjunctivitis. It is an infection of the conjunctiva tissue in the eye. When this tissue gets inflamed, it leads to swelling and redness and there could be eye discharge too. The cat’s eye may not open fully, due to this inflamed conjunctiva. If you notice that your cat has red eyes that are partially closed, take him/her to the vet. Red eye in cats may result in vision loss, if not treated.

The discharge from the eye may be watery or thick. The color can range from transparent to yellow to green. Greenish and yellowish discharges will be thicker. The color and consistency depends on the severity of the condition. It is also a key factor in deciding the course of treatment for cat red eyes. There are many causes for a cat to have red eyes. The most common cause for cat conjunctivitis is infection with the Herpes virus. It is also called “rhinotracheitis”. This is a painful virus and can cause some discharge and redness and often attacks only one eye. Some others causes of cat red eye are listed below:-

• Eyelid tumors
• Inflammation of the cornea which is known as Keratitis
• Glaucoma
• Keratoconjunctivitis also known as dry eye
• Problems with the third eyelid
• Exposure to smoke/pollen/dust/mold/grasses
• Uveitis, which is an infection of the uvea
• It can also be brought on by bacteria, fungi, chemicals or viruses
• Trauma (like a cat fight)

Diagnosis can be made by a vet after certain tests are performed. Be sure to inform him of any symptoms your cat has displayed. Fluorescein staining may be carried out to detect any ulcers on the cornea or superficial abrasions. A shirmer test may be performed to check if the cat’s tear glands are working well. Other special tests such as complete blood work, a glaucoma test, bacterial cultures, conjunctival biopsy or scrapings to study conjunctival cells may also be required.

The course of treatment will depend on the cause of the cat’s conjunctivitis. If there are any substances in the cat’s eye, the eye will be washed thoroughly. Medication may be prescribed if Herpes is the cause. Eye drops or ointments will be given if allergies or inhalants are the reason. Injections can be given directly into the conjunctiva as well. Oral pills or liquids are an option for treatment too.

One cannot prevent cat conjunctivitis but one can ensure that the cat recovers from it quickly.